Northtown Auto Service

2019-06-08T22:14:00.000-07:00

Auto Repairs • Vehicle Maintenance • Diagnostics • Tires • Wheels

Northtown Auto Service has been in business since 1975, providing automotive and engine repairs for all model vehicles. We are an ASE™ Certified establishment with Master Certified Mechanics, to give you the best quality service.

Ted Phillips - Owner
Russell Phillips - Service Manager

Expert Family owned and operated automotive service

voted Best Auto Repair in Kansas City
Kansas City Auto Repair Shop and Mechanics

Cooper Tires Kansas City

2011-04-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

Tire Service and Safety
Tire Care and Inspection
American Racing Wheels

CS4 Touring (T)
Lifeliner GLS
Cobra Radial G/T

Discoverer H/T
Discoverer ATR

Kinkade Tire and Supply Co
1341 Burlington North Kansas City Mo 64116
816.221.4433

Fleet Service Kansas City

2010-08-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

Fleet Maintenance Services - Commercial Fleet Service

Northtown Auto Service provides a comprehensive maintenance program that addresses all aspects of fleet vehicle repairs, including both preventive and corrective maintenance. We offer a broad range of fleet management services to meet each client’s changing needs.

Saving You Time: We help you keep your vehicles on the road during business hours and out of the shop.

Saving You Money: After 12 months of being on our preventive maintenance program, you should experience a significant cost savings in the repairs of your vehicles.

Helping to Ensure Your Customer's Satisfaction: Ensure that your drivers get to each job on time by performing routine maintenance on your vehicles. There is nothing worse than a dissatisfied customers, especially when it can be avoided.

Minimize vehicle downtime and costly repairs with fast,
convenient Fleet Services from Northtown Auto Service.
We'll help you meet your maintenance requirements — expertly and efficiently

Car A/C Air Conditioning - Kansas City

2010-06-24T16:47:00.001-07:00

Automotive Air Conditioning System
check for A/C special discounts

Complete AC Repair, Evacuation and Re-Charge, AC Retrofit, Performance Testing

The air conditioning system in your car is comprised of a compressor, condenser, expansion valve and evaporator. If you have ever used a can of compressed air to clean computer components, you will know that the bottle gets very cold in a short amount of time. This is due to the rapid expansion of the compressed gas. The same thing happens in your car’s air conditioning system. Refrigerant (AKA Freon) is compressed in the compressor and turns into a hot gas. In the condenser, this hot gas is cooled to a liquid state and travels to the expansion valve. As the Freon goes through the expansion valve it returns to a low-pressure gas and rapidly cools in the evaporator. A fan blows over the evaporator and cools the air that eventually blows out your vents.

The heater in your car is basically a smaller version of your cooling systems radiator. Hot engine coolant is circulated through a small radiator, often times called a heater core. A fan is positioned in front of the heater core to blow cold outside air over the fins. As this air travels over the heater core, it heats up and becomes the hot air which blows out your heater vents.

Like your engines cooling system radiator, the heater core can suffer some of the same issues. If the heater core becomes clogged with rust or sludge, you will no longer have heat. Also leaks can cause a cabin full of white steam and really mess up your windows. If you smell the sweet aroma of coolant when your heater is on, chances are, you have a small leak in the heater core. Often times the heater core is buried under the dashboard, and replacing it, is a major job.

Common Problems:
From time to time the A/C system needs to be recharged to bring it back up to maximum efficiency. Sometimes a leak may cause loss of refrigerant and will need to be fixed before refilling. It's difficult to tell if a leak is present without specific test equipment so leave it up to a professional.
In recent years, the EPA has phased out the use of R-12 Freon in all refrigeration systems and R-134 has become the new standard. If you have an older system with R-12 you may need to retrofit your system to handle the new R-134 refrigerant. Sometimes seals, hoses and even the compressor need to be changed. The problem arises when the older seals and hoses are not compatible with the new oils found in the R-134.
Corrosion will cause the heater core (secondary radiator) to leak. This will manifest itself by leaving steam into the passenger compartment and fogging your windows. You will know there is a leak by the sweet smell coming from your vents. Unfortunately changing the heater core is usually not the easier job in the world as engineers tend to squeeze them into some pretty tight spaces under the dash.
Air Conditioning: How A/C Works by Matthew Wright - About.com
Car Radiator Tips radiatorinfo.com

American Racing Wheels Kansas City

2010-06-08T20:43:00.001-07:00

| Cooper Tires |

STYLES and BRANDS

American Racing (AR)
AERO (Series AR606)
ALERT (Series AR607)
ALERT (Series AR607)
AR23 (Series AR23)
AR767 (Series AR767)
ATLAS (Series AR160)
BAJA (Series AR172)
BURN (Series AR337)
BURN (Series AR637)
CASINO (Series AR393)
CASINO (Series AR683)
CASINO (Series AR383)
COIL (Series AR388)
D-8 DUALLY (Series AR654)
D-8 DUALLY (Series AR655)
DEUCE (Series AR652)
DEUCE (Series AR653)
ELEMENT (Series AR681)
ELEMENT (Series AR681)
FUEL (Series AR321)
FUEL (Series AR619)
HAZE (Series AR363)
ESTRELLA (Series AR95)
HAZE (Series AR663)
MAVERICK (Series AR883)
NITRO (Series AR647)
OUTLAW I (Series AR61)
OUTLAW II (Series AR62)
RAZOR (Series AR198)
RAZOR (Series AR698)
SANTA CRUZ (Series AR371)
SANTA CRUZ (Series AR671)
SPEEDWAY (Series AR881)
PHANTOM (Series AR882)
TACTIC (Series AR392)
TACTIC (Series AR692)
TORQ THRUST M (Series AR105)
TORQ THRUST M (Series AR605)
TORQ THRUST ST (Series AR104)
TORQ THRUST ST (Series AR604)
TRENCH (Series AR320)
TRENCH (Series AR620)
VENTURA (Series AR136)
VILLAIN (Series AR885)

DALE JR
CANNON (Series DJ1091)
CANNON (Series DJ6091)
HUSTLER (Series DJ381)
HUSTLER (Series DJ681)
HUSTLER (Series DJ681)
KILLER (Series DJ374)
KILLER (Series DJ674)
OCTANE (Series DJ350)
OCTANE (Series DJ650)

ATX
ARTILLERY (Series AX181)
ARTILLERY (Series AX181)
CHAMBER (Series AX3985)
CHAMBER PRO (Series AX1088)
CHAMBER PRO (Series AX3988)
CRAWL (Series AX185)
JUSTICE (Series AX184)
MOJAVE (Series AX3981)
THUG (Series AX3991)

CARROL SHELBY
RAZOR SHELBY (Series SB199S)
RAZOR SHELBY (Series SB698S)
SHELBY COBRA (Series SB427)
SHELBY COBRA (Series SB427P)
SHELBY TYPE S1 (Series SB395S)
SHELBY TYPE S1 (Series SB695S)
TORQ THRUST M (Series SB105MS)
TORQ THRUST M (Series SB105MS)
TORQ THRUST MS (Series SB605MS)

VINTAGE
200S (Series VN402)
200S (Series VN420)
500 (Series VN500)
ANSEN SPRINT (Series VNA69)
CL205 TT II (Series CL205)
HOPSTER (Series VN550)
SALT FLAT SPECIAL (Series VN470)
SALT FLAT SPECIAL (Series VN471)
SHELBY COBRA (Series VN427)
SHELBY COBRA (Series VN427P)
SMOOTHIE (Series VN31)
T70R (Series VNT70R)
T71R (Series VNT71R)
TORQ THRUST D (Series VN105)
TORQ THRUST D (Series VN605)
TORQ THRUST II (Series VN505)
TTO (Series VN109)
TTO (Series VN309)

**call for price quotes and availability

Oil Change North Kansas City

2010-04-15T13:38:00.001-07:00

Oil Maintenance - Oil and Lube
Filter - Brake Fluid Flush - 30K/60K/90K Services
check for current oil change specials!

One of the few maintenance items that automobile manufacturers have not found a way to eliminate. Regular oil changes are the best way to ensure longer engine life. If you frequently take short trips where the car doesn't always completely warm up, then oil changes are even more important because acid and moisture buildup does not have a chance to burn off. Some new engines normally run very hot and are very hard on oil. Even missing a single oil change on these cars can cause an engine to develop sludge which can cause engine damage in a car with as little as 15,000 miles on the odometer.

Today's modern oils contain detergents and additives that are designed to protect against sludge formation, but if you regularly do a lot of stop and go driving, like rush hour driving, engine heat will eventually break down these additives so that they stop protecting your engine. Sludge problems are NOT covered by a new car warranty. You could be stuck with a bill for major engine work! It happens more times than you think, usually to people who lease their car and think that they can get away with not doing proper maintenance. The best way to protect yourself is with regular oil changes and make sure that you save your receipts.

When an oil change service is referred to as an "Oil, Lube & Filter," the "lube" is a chassis lubrication where the mechanic applies grease to various steering and suspension joints under the car. Most modern cars are manufactured with sealed-for-life joints that do not have grease fittings; however if any of these parts were replaced, the new parts probably do have lubrication points and must be greased to prevent premature wear. If you have had parts replaced, make sure that the mechanic knows it or he may overlook them.

Doing an oil change yourself does not require much skill, but crawling under a car and having oil drip down your sleeve is hardly worth the $10 or so that you might save. Then, you have to deal with the old oil and filter. I could think of a more productive way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

source: www.familycar.com/carcare/OilChange.htm www.familycar.com

Brakes - Repair - Service - Kansas City

2010-04-15T13:06:00.000-07:00

Understanding your brake system

Brake Pads and Shoes, Power Boosters, Anti-Lock Brake Systems, Emergency Brakes, Machine Work, Diagnosis
copyright ©automotive service association

To help prevent brake problems or failures, the following regular inspections and maintenance should be performed on your brake system.
Check the fluid levels.
Check the line for rust or punctures. You may be able to do this, but consult a qualified technician if necessary.
Check the brake hoses for brittleness or cracking. This check should be done by a qualified technician.
Check the brake linings and pads for wear, brake fluid or grease. This check should be done by a qualified technician.
Check the wheel bearings and grease seals. This check should be done by a qualified technician.
Adjust the parking brake as required. This adjustment should be done by a qualified technician.
Some signals that may indicate a problem with your brake system are:
Squeals - caused by excessive heating of brake pads or linings.
Rubbing - caused by the metal brake rotor rubbing against the metal component of the brake pad. This sound means that the brake pad is completely worn away.
A soft brake pedal - indicating that there may be a brake fluid leak or air in the lines.
Brake pull - indicating worn linings, stuck pistons in the calipers or wheel cylinders, or saturated linings (caused by grease or brake fluid).
Brake Services
ABS Brake Systems
Brake Drums
Brake Pad Replacement
Brake Rotors
Diagnosis
Emergency Brakes
Hose Replacement
Line Replacement
Master Cylinders
Power Boosters
Wheel Cylinders

auto repair kansas city

2009-12-28T12:34:00.000-08:00

Automotive Repair Services

A/C and Heating • ASE Mechanic • Brakes • Coolant System
Diagnostics • Drive-train • Electrical System • Exhaust
Fuel System • Oil Change • Power Steering • Preventative
Radiators • Shocks - Struts • Suspension • Transmissions
Tune Up • Mo Safety Inspection • Wheel Alignment

Radiators kansas city

2009-11-08T12:18:00.001-08:00

Water Pumps - Radiator Flush - Hoses - Belts - Thermostats - Heater Cores - Cooling Fans

The National Automotive Radiator Service Association (NARSA) recommends that motorists have a seven-point preventative cooling system maintenance check at least once every two years. The seven-point program is designed to identify any areas that need attention. It consists of:

radiator pressure cap test to check for the recommended system pressure level.
thermostat check for proper opening and closing.
pressure test to identify any external leaks to the cooling system parts; including the radiator, water pump, engine coolant passages, radiator and heater hoses and heater core.
internal leak test to check for combustion gas leakage into the cooling system.
visual inspection of all cooling system components, including belts and hoses.
system power flush and refill with car manufacturer's recommended concentration of coolant.
engine fan test for proper operation.

By performing regular checks, NARSA radiator and cooling system specialists can help motorists prevent problems, emergency repairs and/or replacements, effectively saving the consumer time, trouble and money.

Preventative Cooling System Maintenance Program
Produced by the National Automotive Radiator Association (NARSA)

sitemap

2009-11-07T17:40:00.000-08:00

About Us
Auto Repair Improves With Good Communication
Current Specials
Does your car need Towed?
Dealership Alternative
Local Media
Map
Repair Shop Checklist
Repair Services

A/C and Heating
Alternators
Batteries
Brake Repair
Coolant system
Diagnostics
Drive train - Suspension
Electrical Repairs
Exhaust - Mufflers
Fleet Service
Oil Change and Lube
Preventative Maintenance
Radiators
Power Steering
Safety Inspection
Shocks - Struts
Starters
Tires and Wheels
Transmissions
Tune-up Service
Wheel Alignment

American Racing Wheels
Cooper Tires
Tire service and saftey
Tire Care and Inspection

publication
referring links

auto repair discounts kansas city

2009-11-07T10:32:00.000-08:00

Discounts and Coupons

Our business has continued to grow because of people like you, and we appreciate it! We would like to show our thanks by offering some driving Specials". Take advantage of our Customer Referrel program.

All specials include a 22 point maintenance inspection and a consultation about any problems you may be having.

By appointment only - vehicle must be dropped off
If you would like to receive additional offers please provide us with your e-mail address:
northtownauto@hotmail.com

Pot Hole Special $10 off
any Front End Alignment

Print off this coupon and bring it in at the time of service
and receive $10.00 off the regular price of any front end alignment.

Auto A/C - Performance Check $24.95
(for most cars)
Inspect Hose fittings and compressor
Check for system leaks
Performance Test
Evacuation - Re-charge - Freon extra

Transmission Tune-up $25 0ff

Northtown Auto has Partnered with Master Transmission to offer you quality Transmission service. For Transmission service
please call 816.471.4150
Master Transmission is located next to Northtown Auto Service

Oil Change Service Deluxe $24.95

Change oil and filter (up to 5 qts)
Check tires for wear and damage and rotate as needed

A $60 value (on most vehicles)

Make Your Own Coupon
$15 off any service over $75

(most cars.. does not include Tires sales.
Not to be combined with other specials)

Exhaust - Mufflers kansas city

2009-11-06T22:27:00.000-08:00

Exhaust Systems
Catalytic Converters
Clamps and Hangers
Crossover Pipes
Diagnosis
Exhaust Manifolds
Exhaust Pipes
Gasket Replacement
Mufflers
Tail Pipes

Mechanic Kansas City

2009-11-06T22:19:00.000-08:00

Auto Repair Improves With Good Communication

Ask a car owner why that grinding noise in her brakes has gone unchecked and she'll probably say it's too big of a hassle or she's short on cash. However, the real reason may be a problem that's capturing the attention of the media, the public, and even law enforcement officials nationwide: SHE'S AFRAID SHE'S GOING TO GET RIPPED OFF.

If repair fraud is one of your fears, you're not alone. The National Better Business Bureau reports that auto repair and service is a leading consumer complaint. But this industry is not burying its head in the sand. Instead, it's turning the fraud fiasco into an opportunity, and motorists are the beneficiaries.

Northtown Auto Service goes the extra mile to build this trust, especially when communicating with customers.

The key words are trust and communication. Because it takes communication to build trust, car owners and their technicians must not only communicate, but communicate effectively. How is that done? Here are some suggestions:

1. Inquire about your technician's credentials and experience. This "communicates" that you expect the person who repairs your car to be judged competent by the standards of a national organization.

2. Take a list with you that "communicates" every aspect of your car's problem. It's not enough to say you're having brake trouble. Does the car shimmy when it comes to a stop? What about when you're slowing down but don't come to a full stop: What does the noise sound like? These are the things customers often forget to mention, yet they are priceless tools for the technician, saving him valuable diagnostic time.

3. The third "communication" suggestion is the most important. Get a written statement detailing the needed repairs. This is also the time to inquire about the warranty offered on the work and parts.

4. Read your bill. If you have any questions, ASK. Make sure the repair warranty you discussed earlier is included.

5. When you pick up your car, drive it around the block BEFORE you pay the bill. If the problem still persists, or another issue is present, it's easier to "communicate" your concern at this point.

The extent to which your service center can satisfy you is somewhat dependent upon the information you provide. Communicating what you expect of them is the best way to enjoy a long and happy relationship with your automotive technician.

Northtown Auto Business Listings

2009-10-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

Our Link Partners

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Shocks - Struts - Monroe - Kansas City

2009-08-29T00:55:00.000-07:00

Shock Absorbers - Air Ride Systems

Most people believe that shocks and struts are only necessary for improving a vehicle's riding control. In truth, they do much more than that. Here are some "shocking" Quick Facts":
Under normal driving conditions, shocks and struts stroke on average of 1.750 times every mile you drive - that's over 87 million times in 50,000 miles!
Shocks and struts seldom go bad all at once. Instead, they gradually deteriorate with time and miles, allowing the driver to become accustomed to the change in ride and handling.
Shocks and struts help keep your vehicle's tire in firm control with the road. Worn shocks and struts can result in excessive bounce (wheel hop), lessening the driver's control and braking ability.
A vehicle with just one degraded shock could increase stopping distance up to 10ft.
Shock absorbers can't be repaired. They are sealed units which must be replaced when they fail.
Shocks and struts ARE safety equipment! Shocks and struts play a vital role in protecting components from premature failure because they minimize the amount of vibration vehicle's are subject daily.
Now that you've got the facts, wouldn't you agree that shocks and struts provide more than just a comfortable ride? Protect your investment and get a Safety Triangle Inspection today!

courtesy Monroe Shocks and Struts

Power Steering - Repair - Kansas City

2009-08-29T00:45:00.000-07:00

A power steering system is designed to utilize power from the engine to assist in the force needed to steer the vehicle. When the engine is running, a multi ribbed belt is used to transfer engine power to a hydraulic fluid pump. This pump pressurizes fluid and then transfers this fluid using power steering hoses that are connected to a power steering box or rack and pinion depending on how the car is designed. When the power steering system has malfunctioned the vehicle will be very difficult to steer. It is advised not to move a vehicle with the power steering system not operating. Any steering component malfunction can cause the vehicle to be uncontrollable. When a malfunction occurs basic trouble shooting is required, we have listed some of the most common problems below:
Check Power Steering System Fluid Level
Check Multi Rib Drive Belt
Power Steering Pump Failure

Fuel System - Fuel Injection - Kansas City

2009-08-29T00:19:00.000-07:00

Ignition, Emission and Fuel Delivery Systems Diagnosis and Repair

Carburetor Rebuild and Replacement
Fuel Injection Cleaning
Fuel injection Testing, Repair & Component replacement

The function of the fuel system is to store and supply fuel to the cylinder chamber where it can be mixed with air, vaporized, and burned to produce energy. The fuel, which can be either gasoline or diesel is stored in a fuel tank. A fuel pump draws the fuel from the tank through fuel lines and delivers it through a fuel filter to either a carburetor or fuel injector, then delivered to the cylinder chamber for combustion.

Fuel Systems

Carbon Cleaning
Carburetors
Diagnosis
Diesel Fuel Injection
Fuel Filters
Fuel Gauges
Fuel Hoses
Fuel Induction Service
Fuel Lines
Fuel Pumps
Fuel Tanks
Gas Fuel Injection
Glow Plugs
Leak Test

Batteries - Car Battery - Kansas City

2009-08-29T00:09:00.000-07:00

<< back to electrical

Car Batteries
we are developing this page - call us concerning electrical issues with your car..

Alternators - Repair - Kansas City

2009-08-29T00:05:00.000-07:00

<< back to electrical

Alternators
"An alternator is an electromechanical device that converts mechanical energy to alternating current electrical energy. Most alternators use a rotating magnetic field but linear alternators are occasionally used. In principle, any AC electrical generator can be called an alternator, but usually the word refers to small rotating machines driven by automotive and other internal combustion engines. In UK, large alternators in power stations which are driven by steam turbines are called turbo-alternators". wikipedia

Automotive Electrical Repair - Kansas City

2009-08-28T23:57:00.000-07:00

Electrical System

There's a lot of wire and a lot of juice in your car. Here are links to help you understand what all those electrons are doing.

| Alternators | Batteries | Starters |

Additional Electrical Systems
A/C Controls
Climate Controls
Diagnosis
Electronic Tune-up
Electrical Wiring
Heater Controls
Ignition Switch
Instruments / Gauges
Lights
Power Accessories

Coolant System Repair - Kansas City

2009-08-28T23:55:00.000-07:00

Cooling System Repair

Let’s be honest: Our shop replaces a lot of water pumps, radiators, heater cores, hoses, and head gaskets. Many of these repairs could have been avoided if the cooling system had been properly maintained. Most people are aware that their engine coolant needs to be mixed with antifreeze in order to protect their engine from damage during our freezing winter temperatures. (This same mixture helps to prevent boil-over in hot weather driving).

However many people are not aware that their engine can actually be damaged by this same engine coolant. When your engine’s coolant (a mixture of antifreeze and water) is new it starts as a base. But in the process of time your engine’s coolant becomes more and more acidic. When your coolant gets into this acidic condition it begins to attack aluminum, brass, rubber seals and hoses, and gasket material. Your coolant may “look clean” but actually be highly acidic. We see this problem magnified with so-called “long life” coolant. This type of coolant can also become very acidic but consumers are hesitant to replace it becomes of it’s “long life” advertising.

We highly recommend flushing your cooling system at least every 30,000 miles in order to keep your engine protected from acidic coolant. Have the coolant’s freezing point tested each year as well. Our ASE Certified technicians provide freeze point testing at no charge!

Helpful links:
How Does My Cooling System Work? by Matthew Wright - About.com

Automotive tune up - Kansas City

2009-08-28T23:44:00.000-07:00

When a customer calls our shop and asks about a “Tune-up” the first thing we ask is, “How’s your engine running? Is it running badly? Or do you want to do a Tune-up on your engine for preventive maintenance?” The answer to that key question determines where we go from that point.

If our customer says that the engine is running badly, with any number of symptoms, we explain that what they really need is not a Tune-up but Engine Diagnostic Testing (or sometimes referred to as Engine Driveability Testing).

If our customer says that the engine is running fine but they are interested in a Tune-up for preventive maintenance purposes we generally ask when the spark plugs were last changed. Depending on the year, make, and model of the vehicle, spark plugs should be replaced in most modern vehicles every 30,000 miles or sometimes every 60,000 miles. [Far cry from the 12,000 mile Tune-up huh?] If the spark plugs are due for replacement we can then recommend our Electronic Tune-up service.

Tune-up Service at Northtown Auto is done with the aid of our [Engine Analyzer] and presently consists of: Spark plug replacement, Base ignition timing test, Engine idle test, Visual inspection of emission control devices, Visual inspection of distributor cap, Ignition rotor, and Spark plug wires – as applicable, Ignition waveform test (ignition system testing), and Vacuum waveform test (electronic test of the engine’s mechanical condition).

Northtown Auto's ASE Certified technicians will gladly perform our Tune-up Service for your vehicle at your vehicle’s normal spark plug replacement interval. This interval is every 30,000 for most vehicles and every 60,000 for most vehicles using platinum-type spark plugs.

Engine Diagnostic - Kansas City

2009-08-28T23:37:00.000-07:00

Our customers often describe to us the kind of engine symptoms they are having - and some of them are very good with sound effects! (And this is exactly the kind of information that we need in order to get the diagnostic process started.)

Many times, after describing the symptom, they will ask, “What do you think it is?” My response is usually something like, “I wish that there were only one cause for each type of symptom described to us. But unfortunately there may be a hundred or more possible causes for a single symptom.”

This is the precise reason why our highly trained ASE Certified Master and Level 1 Diagnostic Technicians perform a thorough engine analysis whenever presented with vehicles with “driveability” issues. We perform a multitude of tests, as needed, to track down the precise cause or causes. And this is not unlike the “base readings” that your doctor gets from you each time you visit him or her. Just as they want to know blood pressure, pulse, temperature, height, weight, etc. we want to know the condition of the vehicle’s engine, ignition system, fuel system, computerized engine control system, emission control system, and even exhaust system.

The good news is that by performing this kind of driveability testing our highly trained and experienced ASE Certified technicians can fix the problem right the first time, save you time, and save you money by not performing unnecessary repairs!

Wheel Alignment - Kansas City

2009-08-28T23:13:00.001-07:00

Why Four Wheel Alignment?
Reduced Tire Wear - Better Gas Mileage - Improved Handling
Safer Driving

Front end alignment
by William Remski - www.helium.com

"If you want to know if your vehicle needs a front end alignment there are a few indicators. Does your car pull to one side or the other when you are driving on a flat road with the steering wheel momentarily released? This will not be the slow drift to the side of the road that is caused by the crown of the road, but will be a definite pull. Pull indicates either misalignment or dragging brakes on one side. In any case, if your car is pulling it will need to be taken in to the shop.

The second indication of misalignment is tire wear. Tires should wear evenly across their surface. If the inside or outside of your tires on the front of the vehicle wears out before the rest of the tire you have an alignment problem. Toe in, toe out, caster, and camber all can affect tire wear patterns. In bad cases the tire will wear down to the belts and blow out. In any case, misalignment affects handling and tire longevity and should be corrected at a shop.

The best way to tell if you need an alignment is to take your car to a tire shop and have them check the alignment. The mechanic will be able to use measurement apparatus to determine if your alignment numbers are properly dialed in. They will also be able to check for mechanical problems like bent tie rod ends, broken links, bad ball joints and dragging brakes. Alignment is crucial for proper handling of your car and should be checked in a shop on a regular basis. There is no way you can do these measurements yourself without the proper test equipment".

Four-Wheel Alignments: by Charles Ofria - www.familycar.com

repair checklist

2009-07-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

..click on image to print!